Queen Anne’s County has achieved the highest possible credit rating from all three major rating agencies, a milestone that underscores the County’s strong financial standing and stability. Moody’s Investors Service upgraded the County to Aaa, while S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings both affirmed their AAA ratings. This marks the first time Queen Anne’s County has been recognized with all three Triple-A ratings. 

Notably, Queen Anne’s is the only county on Maryland’s Eastern Shore to earn this distinction, and one of just ten jurisdictions statewide. This distinction is a remarkable testament to the County’s sound fiscal stewardship, robust internal controls, and growing economic vitality, all while maintaining its rural charm and strategic access to major metropolitan markets

“The upgrade from Moody’s Investors represents a significant achievement”, said Commissioner Jim Moran.  “Our rural and diverse local economy continues to see well managed growth while we provide a high quality of life for our citizens”.     

Last week, County Commissioners Chris Corchiarino and Jim Moran, along with County Administrator Todd Mohn, Finance Director Jeff Rank, Economic and Tourism Development Director Heather Tinelli, and Chief of Budget and Finance Operations Nichole Hepfer traveled to New York City to present the County’s position for a higher bond rating. The County makes this periodic trip to finance long-term capital debt for projects such as new public buildings, new schools and major renovations, and major improvements to existing facilities.

This ratings upgrade is comparable to a homeowner improving their credit score and qualifying for lower interest rates. The higher rating will allow Queen Anne’s County to save money on borrowing costs over the life of its bonds.

• Moody’s Investors Service upgraded the County to Aaa, citing a strong financial profile, conservative management practices, and healthy reserves. Moody’s noted that while long-term liabilities are expected to grow with new capital projects, the County’s financial resilience and strong economic fundamentals support their top rating.
• S&P Global Ratings assigned ‘AAA’ long-term ratings to the County’s Series 2025 General Obligation (GO) Public Facilities Bonds and Refunding Bonds and affirmed the County’s existing GO debt at ‘AAA/Stable’. S&P cited the County’s strong financial management, healthy reserves, and stable economy, highlighting consistent surpluses, conservative budgeting, and long-term planning.
• Fitch Ratings affirmed the County’s Issuer Default Rating (IDR) and GO bonds at ‘AAA/Stable’, also assigning the ‘AAA’ rating to the Series 2025 bonds. Fitch emphasized the County’s ample reserves, conservative fiscal management, healthy fund balances, and low liability burden, as well as its proximity to strong regional job markets.

“These top ratings reflect the County’s long-standing commitment to fiscal responsibility, strong management practices, and careful planning for the future,” said County Commissioner Chris Corchiarino. “We are proud to see our efforts recognized by all three major credit rating agencies, reaffirming that Queen Anne’s County is on solid financial ground and is a great place to live.”